Automated time-synchronized electrical system commissioning

ABSTRACT

Aspects extend to automated time-synchronized electrical system commissioning. Automated electrical system commissioning in industrial/commercial settings (e.g., a data center) increases the likelihood that the electrical system functions as intended when released into production. Automated data collection devices can be time-synchronized to collect commissioning data related to electrical and other characteristics of electrical/power system equipment. Time-synchronization can be used to correlate collected data related to electrical loads, electrical harmonics, transient conditions, etc. collected from different data collection devices. A commissioning center computer system can send a local timing signal over a network to a plurality of collection devices to update/synchronize clocks at each of the plurality of data collection devices to a specified time. The commissioning center computer system can include a receiver for receiving a global (e.g., GPS, GLONASS, etc.) time signal. The global time signal can be used to generate the local timing signal.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND 1. Background and Relevant Art

When building a new building or data center, building systems, such as,for example, mechanical systems, electrical systems, plumbing systems,and life safety systems, etc., can be commissioned. In general,commissioning building systems insures that the building systemsfunction as intended when released into production.

More specifically, commissioning electrical systems inindustrial/commercial settings, such as, for example, data centers,insures that the electrical system will function as intended when inoperation. Some electrical anomalies can only be identified duringcommissioning when data from different pieces of equipment areconsidered. Further, electrical anomalies can be transient, happening atmillisecond or even microsecond scales.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Examples extend to methods, systems, and computer program products forautomated time-synchronized electrical system commissioning. Automatedelectrical system commissioning in industrial/commercial settings (e.g.,a data center) increases the likelihood that the electrical systemfunctions as intended when released into production. Automated datacollection devices can be time-synchronized to collect commissioningdata related to electrical and other characteristics of electrical/powersystem equipment. Automation software can access commissioning data fromthe automated data collection devices over a computer network. Thecommissioning data can be stored in a database for analysis. Thecommissioning data can be compared to pass/fail criteria and acommissioning report can be generated.

Time-synchronization can be used to correlate collected data related toelectrical loads, electrical harmonics, transient conditions, etc.collected from different data collection devices. Timing forimplementing tests (e.g., running scripts) at different data collectiondevices can also be synchronized. In one aspect, each of a plurality ofdata collection devices have electrical connections to different piecesof equipment of an electrical system (e.g., transformers, generators,switches, simulated server loads, etc.). Each of the plurality of datacollection devices also has a network connection to a commissioningcenter computer system.

The commissioning center computer system can send a local timing signalover the network connections to the plurality of collection devices toupdate/synchronize clocks at each of the plurality of data collectiondevices to a specified time. The commissioning center computer systemcan include a receiver for receiving a global time signal, such as, forexample, a GPS signal, a GLONASS signal, etc. The global time signal canbe used to generate the local timing signal sent to the data collectiondevices. In other aspects, collected data from different data collectiondevices is synchronized locally at the commissioning center computersystem even when a global time signal is not available and/or a timinglocal timing signal is not sent to data collection devices.

A commissioning center computer system can also use a global time signalto synchronize test activation across a plurality of data collectiondevices.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subjectmatter.

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the descriptionwhich follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or maybe learned by practice. The features and advantages may be realized andobtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularlypointed out in the appended claims. These and other features andadvantages will become more fully apparent from the followingdescription and appended claims, or may be learned by practice as setforth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and otheradvantages and features can be obtained, a more particular descriptionwill be rendered by reference to specific implementations thereof whichare illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that thesedrawings depict only some implementations and are not therefore to beconsidered to be limiting of its scope, implementations will bedescribed and explained with additional specificity and detail throughthe use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates an example of three-phase power in a Wye (Y)configuration.

FIG. 1B illustrates an example of three-phase power in a Delta (A)configuration.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example power system grid including powertransmission and power distribution.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example architecture that facilitates automatedelectrical system commissioning.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a flow chart of an example method foracquiring commissioning data.

FIG. 5 illustrates additional components of a commissioning system.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of an example method for generating acommissioning report.

FIG. 7 illustrates a more detailed architecture of monitoring devicesmonitoring a piece of electrical equipment.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example architecture that facilitates automatedtime-synchronized electrical system commissioning.

FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C illustrate a flow chart of an example method foracquiring time-synchronized commissioning data.

FIG. 10 illustrates additional components of a commissioning system forprocessing time-synchronized commissioning data.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flow chart of an example method for generating acommissioning report time-synchronized commissioning data.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Examples extend to methods, systems, and computer program products forautomated time-synchronized electrical system commissioning. Automatedelectrical system commissioning in industrial/commercial settings (e.g.,a data center) increases the likelihood that the electrical systemfunctions as intended when released into production. Automated datacollection devices can be time-synchronized to collect commissioningdata related to electrical and other characteristics of electrical/powersystem equipment. Automation software can access commissioning data fromthe automated data collection devices over a computer network. Thecommissioning data can be stored in a database for analysis. Thecommissioning data can be compared to pass/fail criteria and acommissioning report can be generated.

Time-synchronization can be used to correlate collected data related toelectrical loads, electrical harmonics, transient conditions, etc.collected from different data collection devices. Timing forimplementing tests (e.g., running scripts) at different data collectiondevices can also be synchronized. In one aspect, each of a plurality ofdata collection devices have electrical connections to different piecesof equipment of an electrical system (e.g., transformers, generators,switches, simulated server loads, etc.). Each of the plurality of datacollection devices also has a network connection to a commissioningcenter computer system.

The commissioning center computer system can send a local timing signalover the network connections to the plurality of collection devices toupdate/synchronize clocks at each of the plurality of data collectiondevices to a specified time. The commissioning center computer systemcan include a receiver for receiving a global time signal, such as, forexample, a GPS signal, a GLONASS signal, etc. The global time signal canbe used to generate the local timing signal sent to the data collectiondevices. In other aspects, collected data from different data collectiondevices is synchronized locally at the commissioning center computersystem even when a global time signal is not available and/or a timinglocal timing signal is not sent to data collection devices.

A commissioning center computer system can also use a global time signalto synchronize test activation across a plurality of data collectiondevices.

Implementations may comprise or utilize a special purpose orgeneral-purpose computer including computer hardware, such as, forexample, one or more computer and/or hardware processors (includingCentral Processing Units (CPUs) and/or Graphical Processing Units(GPUs)) and system memory, as discussed in greater detail below. Somecomputer systems can include and/or be (e.g., network) connected to eyeexamination devices for examining and/or mapping the human eye. Otherdevices are also discussed in greater detail below.

Implementations also include physical and other computer-readable mediafor carrying or storing computer-executable instructions and/or datastructures. Such computer-readable media can be any available media thatcan be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer system.Computer-readable media that store computer-executable instructions arecomputer storage media (devices). Computer-readable media that carrycomputer-executable instructions are transmission media. Thus, by way ofexample, and not limitation, implementations can comprise at least twodistinctly different kinds of computer-readable media: computer storagemedia (devices) and transmission media.

Computer storage media (devices) includes RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM,Solid State Drives (“SSDs”) (e.g., RAM-based or Flash-based), ShingledMagnetic Recording (“SMR”) devices, Flash memory, phase-change memory(“PCM”), other types of memory, other optical disk storage, magneticdisk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other mediumwhich can be used to store desired program code means in the form ofcomputer-executable instructions or data structures and which can beaccessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer.

In one aspect, one or more processors are configured to executeinstructions (e.g., computer-readable instructions, computer-executableinstructions, etc.) to perform any of a plurality of describedoperations. The one or more processors can access information fromsystem memory and/or store information in system memory. The one or moreprocessors can (e.g., automatically) transform information betweendifferent formats, such as, for example, between any of: commissioningtests, commands, activities, sensed values, commissioning data,pass/fail criteria, forecasted electrical system operation, reports,etc.

System memory can be coupled to the one or more processors and can storeinstructions (e.g., computer-readable instructions, computer-executableinstructions, etc.) executed by the one or more processors. The systemmemory can also be configured to store any of a plurality of other typesof data generated and/or transformed by the described components, suchas, for example, commissioning tests, commands, activities, sensedvalues, commissioning data, pass/fail criteria, forecasted electricalsystem operation, reports, etc.

A “network” is defined as one or more data links that enable thetransport of electronic data between computer systems and/or modulesand/or other electronic devices. When information is transferred orprovided over a network or another communications connection (eitherhardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless) to acomputer, the computer properly views the connection as a transmissionmedium. Transmissions media can include a network and/or data linkswhich can be used to carry desired program code means in the form ofcomputer-executable instructions or data structures and which can beaccessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer. Combinationsof the above should also be included within the scope ofcomputer-readable media.

Further, upon reaching various computer system components, program codemeans in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structurescan be transferred automatically from transmission media to computerstorage media (devices) (or vice versa). For example,computer-executable instructions or data structures received over anetwork or data link can be buffered in RAM within a network interfacemodule (e.g., a “NIC”), and then eventually transferred to computersystem RAM and/or to less volatile computer storage media (devices) at acomputer system. Thus, it should be understood that computer storagemedia (devices) can be included in computer system components that also(or even primarily) utilize transmission media.

Computer-executable instructions comprise, for example, instructions anddata which, in response to execution at a processor, cause a generalpurpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purposeprocessing device to perform a certain function or group of functions.The computer executable instructions may be, for example, binaries,intermediate format instructions such as assembly language, or evensource code. Although the subject matter has been described in languagespecific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to beunderstood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is notnecessarily limited to the described features or acts described above.Rather, the described features and acts are disclosed as example formsof implementing the claims.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the described aspects maybe practiced in network computing environments with many types ofcomputer system configurations, including, personal computers, desktopcomputers, laptop computers, message processors, hand-held devices,wearable devices, multicore processor systems, multi-processor systems,microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs,minicomputers, mainframe computers, mobile telephones, PDAs, tablets,routers, switches, and the like. The described aspects may also bepracticed in distributed system environments where local and remotecomputer systems, which are linked (either by hardwired data links,wireless data links, or by a combination of hardwired and wireless datalinks) through a network, both perform tasks. In a distributed systemenvironment, program modules may be located in both local and remotememory storage devices.

Further, where appropriate, functions described herein can be performedin one or more of: hardware, software, firmware, digital components, oranalog components. For example, one or more application specificintegrated circuits (ASICs) can be programmed to carry out one or moreof the systems and procedures described herein. In another example,computer code is configured for execution in one or more processors, andmay include hardware logic/electrical circuitry controlled by thecomputer code. These example devices are provided herein purposes ofillustration, and are not intended to be limiting. Embodiments of thepresent disclosure may be implemented in further types of devices.

The described aspects can also be implemented in cloud computingenvironments. In this description and the following claims, “cloudcomputing” is defined as a model for enabling on-demand network accessto a shared pool of configurable computing resources. For example, cloudcomputing can be employed in the marketplace to offer ubiquitous andconvenient on-demand access to the shared pool of configurable computingresources (e.g., compute resources, networking resources, and storageresources). The shared pool of configurable computing resources can beprovisioned via virtualization and released with low effort or serviceprovider interaction, and then scaled accordingly.

A cloud computing model can be composed of various characteristics suchas, for example, on-demand self-service, broad network access, resourcepooling, rapid elasticity, measured service, and so forth. A cloudcomputing model can also expose various service models, such as, forexample, Software as a Service (“SaaS”), Platform as a Service (“PaaS”),and Infrastructure as a Service (“IaaS”). A cloud computing model canalso be deployed using different deployment models such as privatecloud, community cloud, public cloud, hybrid cloud, and so forth. Inthis description and in the following claims, a “cloud computingenvironment” is an environment in which cloud computing is employed.

In this description and the following claims, “polyphase electricalpower” is defined as electrical power having a plurality of energizedelectrical conductors (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) carryingalternating currents with a defined time offset between the voltagewaves in each conductor.

In this description and the following claims, “three-phase electricalpower” is defined as electrical power having three energized electricalconductors (a “3-wire configuration”) carrying alternating currents witha defined time offset between the voltage waves in each conductor. Forsymmetric three-phase electrical power, each of three conductors cancarry alternating current (AC) of the same frequency and voltageamplitude relative to a common reference but with a phase difference ofone-third the period. The common reference can be connected to groundand/or can be connected to a current-carrying conductor (e.g., theneutral). Due to the phase difference, the voltage on any conductorreaches its peak at one third of a cycle after one of the otherconductors and one third of a cycle before the remaining conductor. Thephase delay gives constant power transfer to a balanced linear load.Three-phase electrical power can be connected in a variety of differentways, including: a Wye (Y) (or “star”) configuration, a Delta (Δ)configuration, etc.

In this description and the following claims, “a wye (Y) (or “star”)connection” is defined as a connection where one end of a conductor foreach phase are commonly connected together. FIG. 1A illustrates anexample of three-phase power in a Wye (Y) configuration 100. Asdepicted, conductor (line) 101 corresponds to phase 111, conductor(line) 102 corresponds to phase 112, and conductor (line) 103corresponds to phase 112. Conductors (lines) 101, 102, 103, and optionalneutral 104 are connected to common neutral point 106. For a generator,each conductor (line) 101, 102, and 103 produces equal voltagemagnitudes at phase angles equal spaced from each other (i.e., separatedby 120°). Equations 121, 122, and 123 define voltages at conductors(lines) 101, 102, and 103. V₁ is a reference with V₃ lagging V₂ laggingV₁. V_(LN) is line voltage.

In this description and the following claims, “a delta (Δ) connection”is defined as a connection where, per phase, each end of a conductor forthe phase is connected to an end of a conductor for each of the otherphases. That is, loads are connected across the lines, and so loads seeline-to-line voltages. FIG. 1B illustrates an example of three-phasepower in a Delta (Δ) configuration 150. As depicted, one end of phase161, one end of phase 162, and conductor 151 are connected at point 161.Similarly, one end of phase 163, one end of phase 163, and conductor 152are connected at point 162. Likewise, one end of phase 161, one end ofphase 163, and conductor 153 are connected at point 163.

As described for Delta (Δ) configurations, loads are connected acrossthe lines, and so loads see line-to-line voltages. Equation 171 definesvoltage V₁₂ (at point 161), equation 172 defines voltage V₂₃ (at point162), and equation 173 defines voltage V₃₁ (at point 163).

Both a delta (Δ) connection and a wye (Y) connection can be arranged ina “4-wire” configuration wherein a fourth wire is provided as a neutraland can be grounded. “3-wire” and “4-wire” configurations can alsoinclude a ground wire for fault protection.

Power Transmission and Distribution

In this description and the following claims, “electric powertransmission” is defined as bulk movement of electrical energy (e.g.,three-phase power) from a generating site (e.g., a power plant) to anelectrical substation. Interconnected lines which facilitatetransmission of electrical energy are known as a transmission network.Power can be transmitted at various voltages. At power stations, poweris produced at a relatively low voltage between about 2.3 kV AC and 30kV AC, depending on the size of the unit. The generator terminal voltageis then stepped up by the power station transformer to a higher voltage(e.g., 110 kV AC to 765 kV AC, varying by the transmission system and bythe country) for transmission over long distances. In the United States,power transmission is, variously, 230 kV to 500 kV AC, (e.g., 230 kV AC,345 kV AC, etc.) with less than 230 kV AC (e.g., 115 kV AC, 138 kV AC,161 kV AC) or more than 500 kV AC being local exceptions. Voltages over765 kV AC can utilize different designs compared to equipment used atlower voltages.

In this description and the following claims “electric powerdistribution” is defined as the movement electrical energy (e.g.,three-phase power) from an electrical substation to customers.Interconnected lines which facilitate distribution of electrical energyare known as a distribution network. Distribution substations connect toa transmission system (or subtransmission system) and lower thetransmission voltage to medium voltage ranging, for example, between 2kV AC and 35 kV AC, with the use of transformers.

Primary distribution lines carry this medium voltage power todistribution transformers located near the customer's premises.Distribution transformers again lower the voltage to the utilizationvoltage of household appliances and typically feed several customersthrough secondary distribution lines at this voltage. Commercial andresidential customers are connected to the secondary distribution linesthrough service drops. Customers demanding a larger amount of power, forexample, for industrial or data center applications, may be connecteddirectly to the primary distribution level or the subtransmission level.

Subtransmission (e.g., of three-phase power) is part of an electricpower transmission system that runs at relatively lower voltages. It maybe uneconomical to connect all distribution substations to the highermain transmission voltage, because the equipment is larger and moreexpensive. Typically, only larger substations connect with this highvoltage. It can then be stepped down and sent to smaller substations intowns and neighborhoods.

There is no fixed cutoff between subtransmission and transmission, orbetween subtransmission and distribution. The voltage ranges canoverlap. Voltages of 69 kV AC, 115 kV AC, and 138 kV AC are sometimesused for subtransmission in North America. As power systems haveevolved, voltages formerly used for transmission were transitioned forsubtransmission, and voltages formerly used for subtransmission weretransition for distribution voltages. Like transmission, subtransmissioncan move relatively large amounts of power, and like distribution,subtransmission can cover an area instead of just point to point. At thesubstations, transformers reduce the voltage to a lower level fordistribution to commercial and residential users. This distribution canbe accomplished with a combination of subtransmission (33 kV AC to 132kV AC) and distribution (3.3 kV AC to 33 kV AC).

At the point of use, the electrical energy (e.g., three-phase power) istransformed to lower voltage, for example, “Mains electricity” (varyingby country and customer requirements). Most of the Americas use 60 HzAC, the 120/240 volt split phase system domestically and three phase forlarger installations.

In this description and the following claims, the “power grid” or simplythe “grid” is defined as a combined transmission network (including anyoptional subtransmission networks) and distribution network.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example power system grid 200 including powertransmission and power distribution (e.g., of three-phase power).Generating station 201 generates power in the 2.3 kV AC to 30 kV ACrange. Generating step up transformer 202 steps the voltage up from the2.3 kV AC to 30 kV AC range to a more suitable transmission voltage,such as, for example, to 765 kV AC, 500 kV AC, 345 kV AC, 230 kV AC, or138 kV AC, for transmitting power over transmission lines 203.

Transmission customer 204 can access the transmitted power fromtransmission lines 203. Transmission customer 204 can include additionaltransformers and other electrical equipment and/or power systemequipment for utilizing transmission range voltages (e.g., 110 kV AC to765 kV AC). Transmission customer 204 may represent an interconnectionbetween a grid containing generating station 201 and some other grid.For example, in North America transmission customer 204 can represent aninterconnection between any of: the Eastern Grid, the Western Grid, andthe Texas (ERCOT) Grid, the Alaska Grid, and the Quebec Grid.

Substation step down transformer 206, for example, in subtransmissionsystems 207, can step down the transmission voltage to a voltage in therange of 33 kV AC to 132 kV AC. Voltage in the range of 33 kV AC to 132kV AC can be transmitted over transmission lines within subtransmissionsystems 207. In one aspect, multiple subtransmissions systems transmitdifferent voltages. The voltages can be progressively stepped down asequipment is physically located closer to residential and commercial endusers. Subtransmisson customer 208 (e.g., a data center or industrialuser) can access the transmitted power from transmission lines.Subtransmission customer 208 can include additional transformers andother electrical/power system equipment for utilizing voltages in the 26kV AC to 132 kV AC range.

Substation step down transformer 213 can further step down voltagestransmitted through subtransmission systems 207 to a voltage in therange of 4 kV AC to 69 kV AC for distribution on distribution lines 214.Subtransmission customer 209 (e.g., an industrial or data centercustomer) can access the distributed power from distribution lines 214.Subtransmission customer 209 can include additional transformers andother electrical/power system equipment for utilizing voltages in the 26kV AC to 69 kV AC range. Primary customer 211 can also access thedistributed power from distribution lines 214. Primary customer 211 caninclude additional transformers and other electrical/power systemequipment for utilizing voltages in the 4 kV AC to 13 kV AC range.

Step down transformer 216 can further step down voltages on distributionlines 214 for commercial and/or residential use. For example, step downtransformer 216 can step down voltages on distribution line 214 to 240VAC (and/or 120V AC). Secondary customer 212 (e.g., a residence) canaccess the 240V AC (and/or 120V AC) from step down transformer 216.

Building System Commissioning

When constructing a building or data center, mechanical, electrical,plumbing, and life safety systems are designed to operate in an intendedmanner when released into production. However, there is no way to insurethat a particular system operates in an intended manner until the systemis actually constructed. Even the best designs may not be realized in asystem that operates as intended. As such, a commissioning process forindividual building systems can be used to validate building systemperformance prior to production release of the building system (e.g.,prior to turning the building over to an owner, allowing the building tobe used for an intended purpose, such as, housing servers, etc.). Thus,commissioning various building systems insures that the building systemsfunction as intended when released into production.

Commissioning processes have remained largely static over the last halfcentury. Commissioning a building system includes developing acommissioning plan. Human commissioning agents review and comment on theplan. Commissioning test scripts are developed and reviewed. Aconstruction QA/QC process is witnessed and equipment is inspected. Aninstaller or manufacturer starts up the equipment. A commissioning team(of human commissioning agents) connects test devices to the equipment.The commissioning team operates the equipment through variousconditions. The commission team gathers data and, from the data,determines if the building system passes or fails. The commissioningteam can generate and submit a report of their findings.

There a number of issues with the current manually intensive process forbuilding system commissioning. Many of the issues relate to safety,human error, and efficiency. Commissioning Agents are human which cancause safety issues and inconsistent results across the program. Issuesinclude, but are not limited to, (1) errors and non-standardization intest development, (2) errors in equipment inspection, (3) errors in testexecution and performing testing processes, (4) errors when collectingand analyzing results, (5) errors in report preparation, and (6) errorswhen explaining results.

More specifically, commissioning electrical systems inindustrial/commercial settings, such as, for example, in data centers,can increase the likelihood that the electrical system functions asintended when released into production. Electrical system commissioningcan include human commissioning agents physically going to variousdifferent pieces of electrical equipment (e.g., transformers,generators, switch gear, relays, circuit breakers, bus bars, batteries,alternators, equipment (e.g., server) racks, etc.) of the electricalsystem. The commissioning agents can attempt record electricalcharacteristics (e.g., voltage changes, current changes, transients,harmonics, ground faults, short circuits, etc.) of the electricalequipment under different test conditions (e.g., energized from utility,energized from generator, switching from utility to generator, switchingfrom generator to utility, different loads, etc.).

Similar to other types of commissioning, when commissioning anelectrical system, any results are subject to human error. Electricalsystem commissioning is also human capital intensive since a largenumber of commissioning agents may be required.

Additionally, when commissioning electrical system equipment, such as,for example, when working with electrical and energy isolation, varioussafety considerations also arise. There is a safety risk when connectingtest devices to electrical system equipment. There is a safety risk whenoperating electrical system equipment. There is a safety risk whenremoving testing devise from electrical system equipment.

As such, many electrical system commissioning activities are dangerousand/or are considered High Risk Activities (“HRAs”) due to the voltagesunder test (e.g., up to 10s of thousands of volts). A humancommissioning agent is often required to open (e.g., remove protectivepanels on) electrical equipment to access internal electricalconnections. The electrical connections can remain exposed whilecommissioning tests are performed. For example, it might not be possibleto reattach protective panels prior to testing due to wires going frominside equipment to connected test devices.

The voltages present in industrial applications, data centers, etc. posean increased risk of injurious and potentially lethal shock if mistakesare made during commissioning. For example, difficulty breathing, pain,and muscle paralysis can occur when a person receives a shock between 10milliamps and 100 milliamps. Increased risk of ventricular fibrillation(resulting in death) can occur when a person receives a shock between100 milliamps and 200 milliamps Severe burns and breathing cessation(resulting in death) can occur when a person receives a shock over 200milliamps.

Automated Electrical System Commissioning

In one aspect, a commissioning center computer system is connected to aplurality of automated data collection devices over a network (e.g.,wired or wireless) to form a commissioning automation network (CAN). ACAN can be a temporary network deployed to support commissioningactivities through applying automation to the commissioning process.Deploying a CAN can include deploying automation software to control andmonitor multiple pieces of electrical equipment as well as deployingtest equipment, data loggers, cameras, condensers (microphones), etc.Outputs from test equipment, data collection devices, cameras,condensers, etc. can be delivered over a wired and/or wireless networkfor rendering at a commissioning center computer system.

Each of a plurality of automated data collection devices can collectdata related to electrical system commissioning. Some devices areelectrically connected to electrical system equipment and others monitorenvironmental conditions related to electrical system functionality.Devices connected to electrical system equipment can collect datarelated to electrical characteristics of the equipment (voltage changes,current changes, transients, harmonics, ground faults, short circuits,etc.). Devices monitoring environmental conditions can collect data,such as, for example, heat, temperature, humidity, barometric pressure,etc. in environments around pieces of electrical equipment. Otherdevices, such as, cameras and condensers can capture video and audio inenvironments around electrical equipment.

Commissioning automation software at the commissioning center computersystem collects data from each of the automated data collection devicesover the network. The data can be used to automatically establishpass/fail for various commissioning tests (without a human being nearpotentially dangerous electrical equipment). The data can also be storedin a database for subsequent analysis (e.g., used by Operations teams,used to tailor subsequent commissioning tests, sent to commissioningsupervisors, etc.). Once the data is stored, analysis possibilities arevery diverse.

In another aspect, a commissioning center computer system providescollected data and test results to a commissioning agent or other userthrough a user-interface. The commissioning agent or other user can viewcollected data and test results in essentially real-time and makedecisions (e.g., start other tests, sign-off, etc.) through theuser-interface based on the collected data and test results.

An electrical system commissioning process can be highly (e.g.,potentially fully) automated by integrating data collection, control,analysis and reporting of the testing and results. CommissioningAutomation Testing software (CATS) can operate over a CAN to control,monitor and record the test equipment as well as some of the buildinginfrastructure. Results are captured and analyzed by the CATS. Resultsthat fall outside of the acceptable parameters can be reported as afailed condition by the software.

By using automation software, pre-set equipment performance parameterscan be selected. When running the tests, CATS can gather the data,analyze the results, compare against the pre-set pass fail criteria, andautomatically generate a pass fail report. This provides real timeanalysis of the results. CATS can control and monitor the electricalequipment under test, capture the data, analyze the results, and thenplace the required data and results in a final report. Automating datacapture and analysis drastically reduces the time the required for aCommissioning Agent to download the data, analyze the data, and decidewhat data needs to go into a commissioning report.

When testing a large Data Center 100,000s of data points can becollected. Automation and (big) data analysis can be used to identifytrends in collected data. By capturing data and storing data in a(potentially distributed) database, the data can be analyzed using (big)data business intelligence tools.

CATS can also integrate building systems and commissioning equipment toa single platform. By running commissioning tests through automatedsoftware, the safety is increased by ensuring the tests are run the sameway reducing the likelihood of human error as well as removing theoperator from some of the hazards during the testing. By connectingcommissioning equipment and installed electrical equipment, many datapoints (e.g., millions) are captured and (e.g., near) real-timeperformance analysis of performance can be realized. When analysis iscompleted and pass fail conditions are reported, a commissioning centercomputer system can automatically generate a commissioning report.

Accordingly, aspects of the invention include automaticallycommissioning an electrical system in industrial/commercial settings(e.g., a data center) to increase the likelihood that the electricalsystem functions as intended when released into production. Automateddata collection devices can collect commissioning data related toelectrical and other characteristics of electrical equipment. Automationsoftware can access commissioning data from the automated datacollection devices over a computer network. The commissioning data canbe stored in a database for analysis. The commissioning data can becompared to pass/fail criteria. A commissioning report can be generated.

In other aspects, a commissioning center computer system controls andmonitors electrical equipment being commissioned. In an automatedfashion, the commissioning center computer system captures commissioningdata, analyzes results, places the commissioning data in a database, andgenerates reports. The commissioning center computer system can sendcommands to automated data collection devices to perform variouscommissioning activities, for example, run a specific script, perform acommissioning test or tests on a piece of electrical equipment, etc.

In one aspect, if commissioning data for a piece of electrical equipmentdoes not satisfy pass/fail criteria, a commissioning center computersystem automatically sends commands to automated data collection devicesto perform additional commissioning activities.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example architecture that facilitates automatedelectrical system commissioning. Referring to FIG. 3, architecture 300includes power lines 321, step down transformer 322, power lines 361,electrical system 323, monitoring device network 327, and commissioningsystem 302. Power lines 321, step down transformer 322, power lines 361,electrical system 323, monitoring device network 327, and commissioningsystem 302 can be connected to (or be part of) a network, such as, forexample, a system bus, a Local Area Network (“LAN”), a Wide Area Network(“WAN”), and even the Internet. Accordingly, power lines 321, step downtransformer 322, power lines 361, electrical system 323, monitoringdevice network 327, and commissioning system 302 as well as any otherconnected computer systems and their components can create and exchangemessage related data (e.g., Internet Protocol (“IP”) datagrams and otherhigher layer protocols that utilize IP datagrams, such as, TransmissionControl Protocol (“TCP”), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (“HTTP”), SimpleMail Transfer Protocol (“SMTP”), Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP),etc. or using other non-datagram protocols) over the network.

Power lines 321, step down transformer 322, and power lines 361 can beincluded in power transmission and/or distribution system that isexternal to data center 301. Power lines 321 can be carrying three-phasepower at a first voltage (e.g., in a range between 33 kV AC to 132 kVAC). Step down transformer 322 can step down the three-phase power atthe first voltage to three-phase power at a second lower voltage (e.g.,in a range between 3.3 kV AC to 33 kV AC). Power lines 361 can carry thethree-phase power at the second lower voltage into data center 301.

Electrical system 323, monitoring device network 327, and commissioningsystem 302 can be included in data center 301. Power lines 321 and stepdown transformer 322 can be under the control of a first entity (e.g., apower or utility company) and data center 301 can be under the controlof send different entity (e.g., a different business). Power lines 361may be under the control of either the first or second entity dependingon a power distribution arrangement between the first and secondentities. Power lines 321 and/or step down transformer 322 can be partof a substation, which may or may not be physical located on propertyunder the control of the second entity. Power lines 361 can be fullyphysically located on property under the control of the second entity orpartially physically located on property under the control of the secondentity and partially physically located on other property (e.g.,depending on the location of a substation).

During design of data center 301, a designer (e.g., owner) can desirefor electrical system 323 to operate in an intended manner. For example,the designer can desire for electrical system 323 to safely provide astable power source for servers installed (e.g., in server racks) atdata center 301 under a variety of different operating conditions. Thevariety of different operating conditions can include, but are notlimited to, energized from utility, energized from generator, switchingfrom utility to generator, switching from generator to utility,different loads, etc.

As depicted, electrical system 323 includes pieces of electricalequipment 324A-324D operating in environments 326A-326D respectively.Electrical equipment 324A-324D can include any of a variety of differenttypes of electrical/power system equipment, such as, for example,transformers (e.g., additional step down transformers), generators,switch gear, relays, circuit breakers, bus bars, batteries, alternators,server racks, etc. A number of other pieces of electrical equipment, inaddition to electrical equipment 324A-324D, can also be included inelectrical system 323. As such, electrical system 323 can includehundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands of pieces of electricalequipment.

Electrical system 323 can be part of a power system infrastructure forpowering data center 301.

Monitoring device network 327 includes devices 328A-328E. Devices inmonitoring device network 327 can be configured to monitor electricalcharacteristics of electrical equipment in electrical system 327 as wellas monitor other (e.g., environmental) characteristics associated withthe operation of electrical equipment in electrical system 327. A numberof other monitoring devices, in addition to devices 328A-328E, can alsobe included in monitoring device network 327. As such, monitoring devicenetwork 327 can include hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousandsof monitoring devices.

Devices in monitoring device network 327 can be connected tocommissioning system 302, and possibly to one another (e.g., in a meshnetwork or star network arrangement), via wired and/or wireless computernetwork connections. Devices in monitoring device network 327 can alsoinclude sensors and, when appropriate, other relevant connections forcollecting commissioning data from monitored pieces of electrical systemequipment and monitored environments.

For example, some devices in monitoring device network 327 can beelectrically connected to conducting wires inside pieces of electricalequipment. These devices can include sensors for sensing electricalcharacteristics of electricity on the conducting wires under differenttest conditions (e.g., energized from utility, energized from generator,switching from utility to generator, switching from generator toutility, different loads, etc.). Sensed electrical characteristics caninclude voltage changes, current changes, transients, harmonics, groundfaults, short circuits, etc., under one or more of the different testconditions. These devices can also include computing resources (softwareand/or hardware) for transforming, converting, etc. sensed electricalcharacteristics into commissioning data indicative of the sensedelectrical characteristics.

Other devices in monitoring device network 327 can monitor environmentalconditions around pieces of electrical equipment under different testconditions (e.g., energized from utility, energized from generator,switching from utility to generator, switching from generator toutility, different loads, etc.). Sensed environmental conditions caninclude heat, temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, etc., underone or more of the different test conditions. These devices can alsoinclude computing resources (software and/or hardware) for transforming,converting, etc. sensed environmental conditions into commissioning dataindicative of the sensed environmental conditions.

In one aspect, multiple devices can be used to monitor differentcharacteristics/conditions associated with a piece of electricalequipment. For example, device 328A can be electrically connected toconducting wires within equipment 324A to monitor electricalcharacteristics of electricity on the conducting wires. Device 328B canbe placed in environment 326A to monitor environmental conditions aroundequipment 324A. Under one or more different test conditions, device 328Acan monitor electrical characteristics of electricity on the conductingwires of equipment 324A along with device 328B monitoring environmentalconditions in environment 326A. Device 328A can also include computingresources (software and/or hardware) for transforming, converting, etc.sensed electrical characteristics on the conducting wires withinequipment 324A into corresponding commissioning data indicative of thesensed electrical characteristics. Device 328B can also includecomputing resources (software and/or hardware) for transforming,converting, etc. the sensed environmental conditions in environment 326Ainto commissioning data indicative of the sensed environmentalconditions.

Alternately, multiple devices can be electrically connected toconducting wires within equipment to monitor different electricalcharacteristics. For example, both device 328C and 328D can beelectrically connected to conducting wires within equipment 324B. Underone or more different test conditions, each of devices 328C and 328D canmonitor different electrical characteristics of electricity on theconducting wires. For example, device 328C can monitor voltage andcurrent while device 328D monitors harmonics. These devices can alsoinclude computing resources (software and/or hardware) for transforming,converting, etc. sensed electrical characteristics on the conductingwires within equipment 324B into commissioning data indicative of thesensed electrical characteristics.

In an additional alternative, multiple devices can be used to monitorenvironmental conditions around a piece of electrical equipment. Forexample, both device 328B and 328E can be placed in environment 326B.Under one or more different test conditions, each of devices 328B and328E can monitor different environmental conditions in environment 326B.For example, device 328B can monitor temperature and device 328E canmonitoring humidity. These devices can also include computing resources(software and/or hardware) for transforming, converting, etc. sensedenvironmental conditions in environment 326B into commissioning dataindicative of the sensed environmental conditions.

In another aspect, a device can be used to monitor characteristicsand/or conditions associated with a multiple pieces of electricalequipment. A device can include multiple sensors can that be placed indifferent locations. For example, device 328B may include multipletemperature sensors. Once sensor can be placed in environment 326C andanother sensor can be placed in environment 326D. Under one or moredifferent test conditions, device 328B can monitor temperature in bothenvironment 326C and environment 326D. Device 328B can also includecomputing resources (software and/or hardware) for transforming,converting, etc. sensed environmental conditions within each ofenvironments 326C and 326D into commissioning data indicative of thesensed environmental conditions.

Alternatively, device 328C include multiple connections and sensors formonitoring voltage. Device 328C can be electrically connected toconducting wires within both equipment 324C and equipment 324D. Underone or more different test conditions, devices 328C can monitor thevoltage of electricity on both the conducting wires within equipment324C and the conducting wires within equipment 324D. Device 328C canalso include computing resources (software and/or hardware) fortransforming, converting, etc. sensed voltages on the conducting wireswithin equipment 324C and the conducting wires within equipment 324Dinto commissioning data indicative of the sensed environmentalconditions indicative of the sensed voltages.

Other combinations and device arrangements (e.g., 1-N, N-1, N-M, M-N,etc.) are also possible for monitoring both electrical characteristicand environmental condition sensors. In general, device arrangements andcombinations can be tailored to capture commissioning data relevant toan electrical system being commissioned.

As depicted, commissioning system 302 includes control module 303,storage device 304, and commissioning tests 306. In general, controlmodule 303 can send commands to devices in monitoring device network 327over a wired or wireless computer network. The commands can instructdevices to monitor and capture commissioning data for equipment andenvironments within electrical system 323.

In some aspects, control module 303 can also perform activities withinan electrical system 323 to change test conditions. In other aspects,control module 303 sends commands to devices in monitoring devicenetwork 327. The monitoring devices then perform activities within anelectrical system 323 to change test conditions. In further aspects,test conditions can be changed by a human commissioning agent or otherpersonnel.

Commissioning data captured at devices in monitoring device network 327can be sent to commissioning system 302 over a computer network.Commissioning system 302 can receive the commissioning data frommonitoring device network 327. Commission system 302 can store thecommissioning data at storage device 304 (e.g., at a database).

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a flow chart of an example method 400 foracquiring commissioning data. Method 400 will be described with respectto the components and data of architecture 300.

An operator of commissioning system 302 (e.g., a commissioning agent)may desire to commission electrical system 323 for release intoproduction. The operator can enter commands into commissioning system302 through a (e.g., graphical) user-interface. In response,commissioning system 302 can attempt to commission electrical system323.

Method 400 includes accessing commissioning tests tailored forcommissioning an electrical system for release into production (401).For example, control module 303 can access commissioning tests 306.Commissioning tests can be tailored (e.g., by a commissioning agent) forcommissioning electrical system 323. That is, commissioning tests 306can be specifically configured to commission types of electricalequipment and environments included in electrical system 323. Controlmodule 303 can access commissioning tests 306 from a durable storagedevice or from system memory at commissioning system 302.

Method 400 includes formulating commands for configuring a plurality ofmonitoring devices from the accessed commissioning tests, the formulatedcommands for configuring the plurality of monitoring devices to monitorcharacteristics associated with operation of one or more of theplurality of pieces of electrical equipment under one or more differenttest conditions (402). For example, control module 303 can formulatecommands 308 from commissioning tests 306. Commands 308 can be forconfiguring a plurality of devices in monitoring device network 327 tomonitor characteristics associated with operation of electricalequipment in electrical system 323. Monitoring can occur under one ormore different test conditions (e.g., energized from utility, energizedfrom generator, switching from utility to generator, switching fromgenerator to utility, different loads, etc.).

For each of the one or more of the plurality of monitoring devices,method 400 includes sending a formulated command to the monitoringdevice, the formulated command instructing the monitoring device tomonitor one or more characteristics associated with operation of one ormore of the plurality of pieces of electrical equipment under the one ormore different test conditions (403). For example, control module 303can send command 308A (from commands 308) to device 328A. Command 308Acan instruct device 328A to monitor humidity in environments 326A and326B under the one or more different test conditions. Similarly, controlmodule 303 can send command 308B (from commands 308) to device 328D.Command 308B can instruct device 328D to monitor voltage and current ofelectricity on conducting wires inside equipment 324C under the one ormore different test conditions.

Method 400 includes receiving the command from the commissioning system(404). For example, device 328A can receive command 308A from controlmodule 303. Similarly, device 328D can receive command 308 B fromcontrol module 303.

Method 400 includes monitoring the one more pieces of electricalequipment under the one or more different test conditions to sensevalues for each of the one or more characteristics associated withoperation of each of the one or more pieces of electrical equipment(405). For example, device 328A can monitor environments 326A and 326Bto sense humidity values 312A in environments 326A and 326B duringoperation of equipment 324A and 324B under the one or more differenttest conditions. Similarly, device 328D can monitor conducting wiresinside equipment 324C to sense voltage and current values 312B ofelectricity on the conducting wires under the one or more different testconditions.

Other commands from commands 308 can be sent to and received at otherdevices (e.g., device 328B, 328C, 328D, etc.) in monitoring devicenetwork 327. The other commands can instruct the other devices tomonitor other characteristics associated with the operation of equipment324A-324D under the one or more different test conditions. Thus, ingeneral, monitoring device network 327 can monitor 310 electricalsystems 323 under the one or more different test conditions.

Different test conditions within data center 301 can be cycled bycommissioning agents or in an automated manner by a combination ofcommissioning system 302 and/or monitoring device network 327. Forexample, a commission agent can switch some or all of electrical system323 from generator to utility power or vice versa. Alternately, controlmodule 303 can send activities 307 to electrical system 323 to switchsome or all of electrical system 323 from generator to utility power orvice versa. In a further alternative, devices in monitoring devicenetwork 327 can send activities 309 switch some or all of electricalsystem 323 from generator to utility power or vice versa. Othertransitions between different test conditions within data center 301,for example, changing loads on parts of electrical system 323, can besimilarly facilitated.

Commissioning data can be collected under one test condition, the testconditions changed, and commissioning data again collected. Testingconditions can be changed multiple times and commissioning datacollected for each test condition. In one aspect, commissioning data iscollected when electrical system 323 is under each of a plurality ofdifferent loads. In another aspect, commissioning data is collected whenelectrical system 323 is energized from utility, during transition ofelectrical system 323 from utility to generator, when electrical system323 is energized from generator, and during transition of electricalsystem 323 from generator to utility. Looping behavior can beimplemented, wherein different commissioning data is collected on eachloop iteration.

Method 400 includes transforming the sensed values into commissioningdata, the commissioning data indicative of the sensed values (406). Forexample, device 328A can transform sensed values 312A into commissioningdata 313A. Similarly, device 328D can transform sensed values 312B intocommissioning data 313B.

Method 400 includes sending the commissioning data to the commissioningsystem for use in analysis and reporting to determine the likelihood ofthe electrical system operating as intended when released intoproduction (407). For example, device 328A can send commissioning data313A to commissioning system 302. Similarly, device 328D can sendcommissioning data 313B to commissioning system 302. Commissioning data313A and 313B can be used for determining the likelihood of electricalsystem 323 operating as intended when released into production.

For each of the one or more of the plurality of monitoring devices,method 400 includes receiving commissioning data from the monitoringdevice (408). For example, commissioning system 302 can receivecommissioning data 313A and 313B from devices 328A and 328Drespectively.

Other devices (e.g., device 328B, 328C, 328D, etc.) in monitoring devicenetwork 327 can also transform sensed values (e.g., temperature,harmonics, etc.) into commissioning data. The other devices can send thecommissioning data to commissioning system 302. Commissioning system 302can receive the commissioning data from the other devices.

For each of the one or more of the plurality of monitoring devices,method 400 includes storing the commissioning data in a database forsubsequent analysis and reporting to determine the likelihood of theelectrical system operating as intended when released into production(409). For example, commissioning system 302 can store commissioningdata 313A and 313B, as well as other commissioning data received fromany other devices in monitoring device network 327, at storage device304 (e.g., a durable storage device). Commissioning data 313A and 313B,as well as the other commissioning data, can be stored in a databasetable. Commissioning data 313A and 313B, as well as the othercommissioning data, can be stored for subsequent analysis and reportingto determine the likelihood of electrical system 323 operating asintended when released into production. Commissioning data 313A and313B, as well as the other commissioning data, can be aggregated intocommissioning data 313.

Turning to FIG. 7, FIG. 7 illustrates a more detailed architecture of700 of monitoring devices 731 and 761 monitoring electrical equipment701 in environment 720. The indicated ellipses represent that otherelectrical equipment and/or monitoring devices can be present bothwithin and outside of environment 720. Devices 731 and 761 can beincluded in monitoring device network 727 and connected via wired and/orwireless network communication to commissioning center computer system781 (which includes functionality similar to commissioning system 302).

Electrical equipment 701 can be a piece of power system equipment, suchas, for example, a transformer, a generator, a switch, a relay, acircuit breaker, a bus bar, a battery, an alternator, an equipment(e.g., server) rack, etc. As depicted, equipment 701 receives (e.g.,three-phase) power from power lines 711. Depending on equipment type,equipment 701 can perform a specified power system function.

Device 731 includes processor 746, network module 747, andcircuitry/sensors 748. Conductors 771 connect circuitry/sensors 748 toports 741. Similarly, conductors 772 connect circuitry/sensors 748 toports 742. From electrical inputs on one or more of ports 741 and/or onone or more of ports 742, circuitry/sensors 748 can sense variouselectrical characteristics of electricity flowing on electrical inputs.

For example, power lines 712 are connected to device 731 through ports742, which are in turn connected to circuity/sensors 748 via conductors772. As such, circuitry/sensors 748 can sense various electricalcharacteristics (e.g., voltage changes, current changes, transients,harmonics, ground faults, short circuits, etc.) of electricity flowingon power lines 712. Processor 746 can transform, convert, etc. thesensed electrical characteristics into commissioning data indicative ofthe sensed electrical characteristics. For example, processor 746 cantransform, convert, etc. sensed electrical characteristics ofelectricity flowing on power lines 712 into commissioning data 782indicative of the sensed electrical characteristics

Network module 747 can send commissioning data 782 over monitoringdevice network 727 to commissioning center computer system 781. Networkmodule 747 can include hardware and software for implementing wiredand/or wireless network connections.

Network ports 744 and 745 can be configured to receive wired networkconnections. Through network ports 744 and 745, device 731 can benetwork connected to other monitoring devices and/or to electricalequipment using wired network connections. Control port 743 can be usedfor local connections to electrical equipment control systems whenappropriate. When connected, processor 746 can control the operation ofa piece of electrical equipment (e.g., to transition between testconditions, such as, energized from utility, energized from generator,switching from utility to generator, switching from generator toutility, different loads, etc.) via a local connection though controlport 743. For example, commissioning center computer system 781 can senda command over monitoring network 727 to device 731. Device 731 can thenlocally forward the command to the electrical equipment to controloperation of the electrical equipment.

Device 761 (e.g., a wireless data logger) includes processor 756,network module 757, and environmental sensors 758. Ports 751 and 752 areconnected to environmental sensors 758. Environmental sensors 758 cansense environmental conditions (e.g., heat, temperature, humidity,barometric pressure, etc.) in environment 720. Other external sensorscan be integrated with environmental sensors 758 through connections toport 751 and/or port 752. The external sensors as well as environmentalsensors 758 can sense environmental conditions within environment 720.

Processor 756 can transform, convert, etc. the sensed environmentalconditions into commissioning data indicative of the sensedenvironmental conditions. For example, processor 756 can transform,convert, etc. sensed environmental conditions within environment 720into commissioning data 783 indicative of the sensed environmentalconditions. Network module 757 can send commissioning data 783 overmonitoring device network 727 to commissioning center computer system781. Network module 757 can include hardware and software forimplementing wired and/or wireless network connections.

Network ports 754 and 55 can be configured to receive wired networkconnections. Through network ports 754 and 755, device 761 can benetwork connected to other monitoring devices and/or to electricalequipment using wired network connections. Control port 753 can be usedfor local connections to electrical equipment control systems whenappropriate. When connected, processor 756 can control the operation ofa piece of electrical equipment (e.g., to transition between operatingconditions, such as, energized from utility, energized from generator,switching from utility to generator, switching from generator toutility, different loads, etc.) via a local connection though controlport 753. For example, commissioning center computer system 781 can senda command over monitoring network 727 to device 761. Device 761 can thenlocally forward the command to the electrical equipment to controloperation of the electrical equipment.

Turning to FIG. 5, FIG. 5 illustrates additional components ofcommissioning system 302 (which can also be realized in commissioningcenter computer system 781). As depicted, commissioning system 302further includes forecasting module 513. In general, forecasting module513 can analyze commissioning data acquired from an electrical system inan automated manner From the analysis, forecasting module 513 candetermine (forecast) the likelihood of the electrical system operatingas intended when released into production.

Forecasting module 513 can refer to pass/criteria 514. Forecastingmodule 513 can compare commissioning data to pass/fail criteria todetermine (forecast) the likelihood of the electrical system operatingas intended when released into production. Pass/fail criteria 514 canhave varied levels of granularity. Some pass/fail criteria can apply tospecific types and/or pieces of electrical equipment and/or environmentsin an electrical system. Other pass/fail criteria can apply to groupingsof electrical equipment and/or environments in an electrical system oreven to an electrical system as a whole.

In one aspect, pass/fail criteria for commissioning an electrical systemare tailored to the electrical system. For example, pass/fail criteria514 can be formulated to validate specific types and/or pieces ofelectrical equipment and/or environments in the electrical system 323for intended operation. Since electrical characteristics andenvironmental conditions can be captured for many different pieces ofelectrical equipment, relatively complex pass/fail criteria can beformed. Pass/fail criteria 514 can be used to validate operation of avariety of different pieces of electrical equipment, under a variety ofdifferent environmental conditions, and under a variety of differenttest conditions. Pass/fail criteria 514 can include/indicaterelationships between commissioning data acquired for different piecesof electrical equipment and/or acquired for different environments.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of an example method 600 for determininga likelihood of an electrical system operating as intended when releasedinto production. Method 600 will be described with respect to thecomponents and data of architecture 300 and additional components ofcommissioning system 302 depicted in FIG. 5.

Method 600 can be used to determine a likelihood of electrical system323 operating as intended when released into production. For example,method 600 can be used to determine the likelihood of electrical system323 safely providing a stable power source for servers installed (e.g.,in server racks) at data center 301 under a variety of differentoperating conditions. The variety of different operating conditions caninclude, but are not limited to, energized from utility, energized fromgenerator, switching from utility to generator, switching from generatorto utility, different loads, etc.

Method 600 includes accessing commissioning data from a storage device,the commissioning data received from each of a plurality of monitoringdevices over a computer network (601). For example, forecasting module513 can access commissioning data 313 from storage device 304. Asdescribed, commissioning data 313 was received from each of a pluralityof monitoring devices in monitoring device network 327 over a wiredand/or wireless computer network.

For one or more of the plurality of pieces of electrical equipment undertest, method 600 includes comparing stored commissioning data for thepiece of electrical equipment to defined pass/fail criteria for thepiece of electrical system equipment, the pass/fail criteria definingappropriate operation of the piece of the electrical equipment withinthe production environment (602). For example, forecasting module 513can access pass/fail criteria 514A. Pass/fail criteria 514A can defineappropriate operation of equipment 324A under a variety of differentoperation conditions in data center 301. Forecasting module 513 cancompare commissioning data 313A, as well as other commissioning data forequipment 324A, to pass/fail criteria 514A.

Similarly, forecasting module 513 can access pass/fail criteria 514B.Pass/fail criteria 514B can define appropriate operation of equipment324C under a variety of different operation conditions in data center301. Forecasting module 513 can compare commissioning data 313B, as wellas other commissioning data for equipment 324B, to pass/fail criteria514B. Forecasting module 513 can perform similar comparisons ofcommissioning data to pass/fail criteria for other electrical equipment,such as, for example, electrical equipment 324B, 324D, 324E, etc.

Method 600 includes forecasting the likelihood of the electrical systemoperating as intended in the production environment based on thecomparisons (603). For example, forecasting module 513 can formulateforecasted operation 516 based on comparisons of commissioning data 313to pass/fail criteria 514. Forecasted operation 516 can forecast thelikelihood of electrical system 323 safely providing a stable powersource for servers installed (e.g., in server racks) at data center 301under a variety of different operating conditions.

Method 600 includes generating a report indicative of the forecastedoperation of the electrical system within the production environment(604). For example, forecasting module 513 can generate report 517including forecasted operation 516.

Commissioning system 302 can output report 517 through a (e.g.,graphical) user-interface. An operator of commissioning system 302(e.g., a commissioning agent) can view report 517 at the user-interface.In one aspect, report 517 is provided in essentially real-time. Based onreport 517, the operator can make additional decisions with respect toreleasing electrical system 323 into production. For example, theoperator can initiate further commissioning, for example, if report 517indicates possible unsafe and/or unstable operation of electrical system323 (or components thereof) under some set of operating conditions.Further commissioning can include collecting additional commissioningdata, comparing commissioning data 313 to different pass/fail criteria,generating additional reports, etc. Alternately, the operator may besatisfied with the content of report 517 and release electrical system323 into production.

Automated Time-Synchronized Electrical System Commissioning

In some aspects, a commissioning system computer system computerincludes a receiver for receiving a global time signal from a timingservice, such as, for, example, a Global Positioning Service (GPS), aGLONASS service, etc. From the global time signal, commissioning systemcomputer system generates a local timing signal used to synchronizeclocks across a plurality of monitoring devices.

In an automated fashion, the commissioning center computer systemcaptures time-synchronized commissioning data, analyzes results, placesthe time-synchronized commissioning data in a database, and generatesreports. The commissioning center computer system can send commands toautomated data collection devices to perform various commissioningactivities, for example, run a specific script at a specified time,perform a commissioning test or tests on a piece of electrical equipmentat a specified time, etc.

In one aspect, time-synchronized commissioning data from a plurality ofpieces of electrical equipment are collectively considered relative topass/fail criteria. If the collective consideration does not satisfypass/fail criteria, a commissioning system computer system automaticallysends commands to automated data collection devices to performadditional commissioning activities.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example architecture 800 that facilitatesautomated time-synchronized electrical system commissioning. Referringto FIG. 8, architecture 800 includes power lines 821, step downtransformer 822, power lines 861, electrical system 823, monitoringdevice network 827, and commissioning system 802. Power lines 821, stepdown transformer 822, power lines 861, electrical system 823, monitoringdevice network 827, and commissioning system 802 can be connected to (orbe part of) a network, such as, for example, a system bus, a Local AreaNetwork (“LAN”), a Wide Area Network (“WAN”), and even the Internet.Accordingly, power lines 821, step down transformer 822, power lines861, electrical system 823, monitoring device network 827, andcommissioning system 802 as well as any other connected computer systemsand their components can create and exchange message related data (e.g.,Internet Protocol (“IP”) datagrams and other higher layer protocols thatutilize IP datagrams, such as, Transmission Control Protocol (“TCP”),Hypertext Transfer Protocol (“HTTP”), Simple Mail Transfer Protocol(“SMTP”), Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP), etc. or using othernon-datagram protocols) over the network.

Power lines 821, step down transformer 822, and power lines 861 can beincluded in power transmission and/or distribution system that isexternal to data center 801. Power lines 821 can be carrying three-phasepower at a first voltage (e.g., in a range between 33 kV AC to 132 kVAC). Step down transformer 822 can step down the three-phase power atthe first voltage to three-phase power at a second lower voltage (e.g.,in a range between 3.3 kV AC to 33 kV AC). Power lines 861 can carry thethree-phase power at the second lower voltage into data center 801.

Electrical system 823, monitoring device network 827, and commissioningsystem 802 can be included in data center 801. Control and location ofpower lines 821, step down transformer 822, and power lines 861 can takeany of the arrangements described with respect to power lines 321, stepdown transformer 322, and power lines 361.

During design of data center 801, a designer (e.g., owner) can desirefor electrical system 823 to operate in an intended manner. For example,the designer can desire for electrical system 823 to safely provide astable power source for servers installed (e.g., in server racks) atdata center 801 under a variety of different operating conditions. Thevariety of different operating conditions can include, but are notlimited to, energized from utility, energized from generator, switchingfrom utility to generator, switching from generator to utility,different loads, etc.

As depicted, electrical system 823 includes pieces of electricalequipment 824A-824C operating in environments 826A-826C respectively.Electrical equipment 824A-824C can include any of a variety of differenttypes of electrical/power system equipment, such as, for example,transformers (e.g., additional step down transformers), generators,switch gear, relays, circuit breakers, bus bars, batteries, alternators,server racks, etc. A number of other pieces of electrical equipment, inaddition to electrical equipment 824A-824D, can also be included inelectrical system 823. As such, electrical system 823 can includehundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands of pieces of electricalequipment.

Electrical system 823 can be part of a power system infrastructure forpowering data center 801.

Monitoring device network 827 includes devices 828A-828C. Devices inmonitoring device network 827 can be configured to monitor electricalcharacteristics of electrical equipment in electrical system 827 as wellas monitor other (e.g., environmental) characteristics associated withthe operation of electrical equipment in electrical system 827. A numberof other monitoring devices, in addition to devices 828A-828C, can alsobe included in monitoring device network 827. As such, monitoring devicenetwork 827 can include hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousandsof monitoring devices.

Each of devices 828A-828C, as well as any other devices in monitoringdevice network 827, can include any of the components of device 731and/or any of the components of device 761. Devices included inmonitoring device network 827 can also include a clock. For example,devices 826A-826C include clocks 829A-929C respectively. Clocks829A-829C can be used to synchronize the collection of commissioningdata between devices 826A-826C as well as other devices included inmonitoring device network. For example, devices 828A-828C can receive alocal timing signal from commissioning system 802. Devices 828A-828C canused the local timing signal to synchronize clocks 829A-829Crespectively to a specified time. When clocks 829A-829C aresynchronized, more relevant commissioning data can be collected. Usingtime-synchronized commissioning data more complex electricalcharacteristics, anomalies, etc. may also be identified. For example, itmay be possible to identify an electrical anomaly in electrical system823 from time-synchronized data collected at multiple devices inmonitoring device network 827 (and even when time-synchronized fromindividual devices does not indicate an anomaly).

Devices in monitoring device network 827 can be connected tocommissioning system 802, and possibly to one another (e.g., in a meshnetwork or star network arrangement), via wired and/or wireless computernetwork connections. Devices in monitoring device network 827 can alsoinclude sensors and, when appropriate, other relevant connections forcollecting time-synchronized commissioning data from monitored pieces ofelectrical system equipment and monitored environments.

For example, some devices in monitoring device network 827 can beelectrically connected to conducting wires inside pieces of electricalequipment. These devices can include sensors for sensing electricalcharacteristics of electricity on the conducting wires under differenttest conditions (e.g., energized from utility, energized from generator,switching from utility to generator, switching from generator toutility, different loads, etc.). Sensed electrical characteristics caninclude voltage changes, current changes, transients, harmonics, groundfaults, short circuits, etc., under one or more of the different testconditions. These devices can also include computing resources (softwareand/or hardware) for transforming, converting, etc. sensed electricalcharacteristics into commissioning data indicative of the sensedelectrical characteristics.

Other devices in monitoring device network 827 can monitor environmentalconditions around pieces of electrical equipment under different testconditions (e.g., energized from utility, energized from generator,switching from utility to generator, switching from generator toutility, different loads, etc.). Sensed environmental conditions caninclude heat, temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, etc., underone or more of the different test conditions. These devices can alsoinclude computing resources (software and/or hardware) for transforming,converting, etc. sensed environmental conditions into commissioning dataindicative of the sensed environmental conditions.

Similar to monitoring device network 327, multiple devices in monitoringdevice network 827 can be used to monitor differentcharacteristics/conditions associated with a piece of electricalequipment. Multiple devices in monitoring device network 827 can also beelectrically connected to conducting wires within equipment to monitordifferent electrical characteristics. Multiple devices in monitoringdevice network 827 can be used to monitor environmental conditionsaround a piece of electrical equipment. A device in monitoring devicenetwork 827 can also be used to monitor characteristics and/orconditions associated with multiple pieces of electrical equipment. Forexample, a device can include multiple sensors can that be placed indifferent locations. Other combinations and device arrangements (e.g.,1-N, N-1, N-M, M-N, etc.) in monitoring device network 827 are alsopossible for monitoring both electrical characteristic and environmentalconditions. In general, device arrangements and combinations can betailored to capture time-synchronized commissioning data relevant to anelectrical system being commissioned.

As depicted, commissioning system 802 includes control module 803,storage device 804, commissioning tests 806, synchronization module 853,and clock 855. In general, control module 803 can send commands todevices in monitoring device network 827 over a wired or wirelesscomputer network. The commands can instruct devices to monitor andcapture time synchronized commissioning data for equipment andenvironments within electrical system 823.

Synchronization module 853 is configured to receive a global time (aglobal time signal) from timing service 851, such as, for example, froma Global Positioning Service (GPS), from a GLOSNASS service, etc.Synchronization module 853 can formulate a local timing signal from areceived global time. Synchronization module 853 can send the localtiming signal to clock 855 as well as to devices in monitoring devicenetwork 827.

In one aspect, control module 803 uses a local timing signal tosynchronize test activation across a plurality of devices in monitoringdevice network 827.

In some aspects, control module 803 can also perform activities withinan electrical system 823 to change test conditions. In other aspects,control module 803 sends commands to devices in monitoring devicenetwork 827. The monitoring devices then perform activities within anelectrical system 823 to change test conditions. In further aspects,test conditions can be changed by a human commissioning agent or otherpersonnel.

Time-synchronized commissioning data captured at devices in monitoringdevice network 827 can be sent to commissioning system 802 over acomputer network. Commissioning system 802 can receive the commissioningdata from monitoring device network 827. Commission system 802 can storethe time-synchronized commissioning data at storage device 804 (e.g., ata database).

FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C illustrate a flow chart of an example method 900for acquiring time-synchronized commissioning data. Method 900 will bedescribed with respect to the components and data of architecture 800.

Method 900 includes accessing access commissioning tests tailored forcommissioning the electrical system for release into production (901).For example, control module 803 can access commissioning tests 806.Commissioning tests can be tailored (e.g., by a commissioning agent) forcommissioning electrical system 823. That is, commissioning tests 806can be specifically configured to commission types of electricalequipment and environments included in electrical system 823. Controlmodule 803 can access commissioning tests 806 from a durable storagedevice or from system memory at commissioning system 802.

Method 900 includes formulating commands for configuring the pluralityof monitoring devices from the accessed commissioning tests, thecommands for configuring the plurality of monitoring devices to monitorcharacteristics associated with operation of one or more of theplurality of pieces of electrical equipment under one or more differenttest conditions (902). For example, control module 803 can formulatecommands 808 from commissioning tests 806. Commands 808 can be forconfiguring a plurality of devices in monitoring device network 827 tomonitor characteristics associated with operation of electricalequipment in electrical system 823. Monitoring can occur under one ormore different test conditions (e.g., energized from utility, energizedfrom generator, switching from utility to generator, switching fromgenerator to utility, different loads, etc.).

For each of one or more of the plurality of monitoring devices, method900 includes sending a local timing signal to the monitoring device, thelocal timing signal instructing the monitoring device to synchronize aclock to a specified time (903). For example, synchronization module 853can receive global time 852 from timing service 851. From global time852, synchronization module 853 can formulate local timing signal 854.Synchronization module 853 can send local timing signal 854 to each ofdevices 828A-828C. Synchronization module 853 can also use local timingsignal 854 to synchronize clock 855 to a specified time.

Method 900 includes receiving a local timing signal from thecommissioning center computer system over a computer network, the localtiming signal instructing the monitoring device to synchronize the clockto a specified time (904). For example, each of devices 828A-828C canreceive local timing signal 854 over monitoring device network 827.Local timing signal 854 instructs devices 828A-828C to synchronizeclocks 829A-829C to the specified time. Method 900 includessynchronizing the clock with clocks at one or more other devicesmonitoring pieces of the electrical equipment in the electrical system(905). For example, devices 828A-828C can synchronize clocks 829A-829Cto the specified time.

For each of one or more of the plurality of monitoring devices, method900 includes sending a command to the monitoring device instructing themonitoring device to monitor one or more characteristics associated withoperation of one or more of the plurality of pieces of electricalequipment under the one or more different test conditions (906). Forexample, control module 803 can send command 808A (from commands 808) todevice 828A. Command 808A can instruct device 828A to monitor harmonicson conducting wires inside equipment 824A under the one or moredifferent test conditions. Similarly, control module 803 can sendcommand 808B (from commands 808) to device 828B. Command 808B caninstruct device 828B to monitor temperature and pressure in environment826B. Likewise, control module 803 can send command 808C (from commands808) to device 828C. Command 808C can instruct device 828C to monitortiming of changes in current on conducting wires inside equipment 824Cunder the one or more different test conditions.

In one aspect, control module 803 refers to clock 855 to determine whento send commands 808A, 808B, and 808C so that relevant time-synchronizedcommissioning data can be collected at devices 828A, 828B, and 828C.

Method 900 includes receiving a command from the commissioning centercomputer system over the computer network, the command instructing thedevice to monitor one or more characteristics associate with operationof the piece of electrical equipment at a second specified time, thesecond specified time after the first specified time (907). For example,devices 828A-828C can receive commands 808A-808C respectively overmonitoring device network 827. Commands 808A-808C instruct devices828A-828C to monitor indicated characteristics at a second specifiedtime. For example, command 808A instructs device 828A to monitorharmonics on conducting wires inside equipment 824A at the secondspecified time. Command 808B instructs device 828B to monitortemperature and pressure in environment 826B at the second specifiedtime. Command 808B instructs device 828C to monitor timing of changes incurrent on conducting wires inside equipment 824C at the secondspecified time.

Method 900 includes monitoring the piece of electrical equipment withthe sensors when the clock indicates the second specified time to sensevalues for each of the one or more characteristics associated withoperation of the piece of electrical equipment (908). For example,device 828A can monitor conducting wires inside equipment 824A at thesecond specified time to sense harmonic values 812A during operation ofequipment 824A under the one or more different test conditions.Similarly, device 828B can monitor environment 826B at the secondspecified time to sense temperature and pressure values 812B duringoperation of equipment 824A under the one or more different testconditions. Likewise, device 828C can monitor conducting wires insideequipment 824C at the second specified time to sense values 812 fortiming of current changes under the one or more different testconditions.

Different test conditions within data center 801 can be cycled bycommissioning agents or in an automated manner by a combination ofcommissioning system 802 and/or monitoring device network 827. Forexample, a commission agent can switch some or all of electrical system823 from generator to utility power or vice versa. Alternately, controlmodule 803 can send activities to electrical system 823 to switch someor all of electrical system 823 from generator to utility power or viceversa. In a further alternative, devices in monitoring device network827 can send activities to switch some or all of electrical system 823from generator to utility power or vice versa. Other transitions betweendifferent test conditions within data center 801, for example, changingloads on parts of electrical system 823, can be similarly facilitated.

Time-synchronized commissioning data can be collected under one testcondition, the test conditions changed, and time-synchronizedcommissioning data again collected. Testing conditions can be changedmultiple times and rime-synchronized commissioning data collected foreach test condition. In one aspect, time-synchronized commissioning datais collected when electrical system 823 is under each of a plurality ofdifferent loads. In another aspect, time-synchronized commissioning datais collected when electrical system 823 is energized from utility,during transition of electrical system 823 from utility to generator,when electrical system 823 is energized from generator, and duringtransition of electrical system 823 from generator to utility. Loopingbehavior can be implemented, wherein different time-synchronizedcommissioning data is collected on each loop iteration.

Method 900 includes transforming the sensed values intotime-synchronized commissioning data, the time-synchronizedcommissioning data indicative of the sensed values and that the secondvalues were sensed at the second specified time (909). For example,device 828A can transform sensed values 812A into time-synchronizedcommissioning data 813A. Time-synchronized commissioning data 813A canindicate that sensed values 812A were sensed at the second specifiedtime. Similarly, device 828B can transform sensed values 812B intotime-synchronized commissioning data 813B. Time-synchronizedcommissioning data 813B can indicate that sensed values 812B were sensedat the second specified time. Likewise, device 828C can transform sensedvalues 812C into time-synchronized commissioning data 813C.Time-synchronized commissioning data 813C can indicate that sensedvalues 812C were sensed at the second specified time.

Method 900 includes sending the time-synchronized commissioning data tothe commissioning center computer system for use in analysis andreporting to determine the likelihood of the electrical system operatingas intended when released into production (910). For example, device828A can send time-synchronized commissioning data 813A to commissioningsystem 802. Similarly, device 828B can send time-synchronizedcommissioning data 813B to commissioning system 802. Likewise, device828C can send time-synchronized commissioning data 813C to commissioningsystem 802. Time-synchronized commissioning data 813A, 813B, and 813Ccan be used for determining the likelihood of electrical system 823operating as intended when released into production.

For each of one or more of the plurality of monitoring devices, method900 includes receiving time-synchronized commissioning data from themonitoring device, the time-synchronized commissioning data indicatingvalues monitored for the one or more characteristics at the one or morepieces of electrical equipment under one or more different testconditions, the time-synchronized commissioning data synchronized inaccordance with the local timing signal (911). For example,commissioning system 802 can receive time-synchronized commissioningdata 813A, 813B, and 813C from devices 828A, 828B and 828C respectively.

For each of one or more of the plurality of monitoring devices, method900 includes storing the time-synchronized commissioning data in adatabase for subsequent analysis and reporting to determine thelikelihood of the electrical system operating as intended when releasedinto production (912). For example, commissioning system 802 can storetime-synchronized commissioning data 813A, 813B, and 813C at storagedevice 804. Time-synchronized commissioning data 813A, 813B, and 813Ccan be stored in a database table. Time-synchronized commissioning data813A, 813B, and 813C can be stored for subsequent analysis and reportingto determine the likelihood of electrical system 823 operating asintended when released into production. Time-synchronized commissioningdata 813A, 813B, and 813C can be aggregated into commissioning data 813.

Turing to FIG. 10, FIG. 10 illustrates additional components of acommissioning system 802 for processing time-synchronized commissioningdata (which can also be realized in commissioning system 302 and/orcommissioning center computer system 781). As depicted, commissioningsystem 802 further includes forecasting module 1013. In general,forecasting module 1013 can analyze time-synchronized commissioning dataacquired from an electrical system in an automated manner From theanalysis, forecasting module 1013 can determine (forecast) thelikelihood of the electrical system operating as intended when releasedinto production.

Forecasting module 1013 can refer to pass/criteria 1014. Forecastingmodule 1013 can compare time-synchronized commissioning data topass/fail criteria to determine (forecast) the likelihood of theelectrical system operating as intended when released into production.Pass/fail criteria 1014 can have varied levels of granularity. Somepass/fail criteria can apply to specific types and/or pieces ofelectrical equipment and/or environments in an electrical system. Otherpass/fail criteria can apply to groupings of electrical equipment and/orenvironments in an electrical system or even to an electrical system asa whole.

In one aspect, pass/fail criteria for commissioning an electrical systemare tailored to the electrical system. For example, pass/fail criteria1014 can be formulated to validate specific types and/or pieces ofelectrical equipment and/or environments in the electrical system 823for intended operation. Since electrical characteristics andenvironmental conditions can be captured in a synchronized manner formany different pieces of electrical equipment, relatively complexpass/fail criteria can be formed. Pass/fail criteria 1014 can alsoinclude/indicate relationships between time-synchronized commissioningdata acquired for different pieces of electrical equipment and/oracquired for different environments. For example, pass/fail criteriabased on the timing of electrical characteristics and environmentalconditions sensed at multiple different pieces of electrical equipmentcan be formulated.

Pass/fail criteria 1014 can be used to validate operation of a varietyof different pieces of electrical equipment, under a variety ofdifferent environmental conditions, and under a variety of differenttest conditions.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flow chart of an example method 1100 forgenerating a commissioning report time-synchronized commissioning data.Method 1100 will be described with respect to the components and data ofarchitecture 800 and additional components of commissioning system 802depicted in FIG. 10.

Method 1100 includes accessing time-synchronized commissioning data froma storage device, the time-synchronized commissioning data received fromeach of the plurality of monitoring devices over a computer network, thetime-synchronized commissioning data synchronized between the pluralityof monitoring devices in accordance with a local timing signal (1101).For example, forecasting module 1013 can access time-synchronizedcommissioning data 813 from storage device 804. As described,time-synchronized commissioning data 813 was received from devices 828A,828B, and 828C over monitoring device network 827.

For at least two pieces of electrical equipment from among the pluralityof pieces of electrical equipment under test, method 1100 includescompare time-synchronized commissioning data for the at least two piecesof electrical equipment relative to defined pass/fail criteria for anaspect of the electrical system, the pass/fail criteria definingappropriate operation of the aspect of the electrical system within theproduction environment (1102). For example, 1013 can access pass/failcriteria 514A. Pass/fail criteria 514A can define appropriate operationof an aspect of electrical system 823. Forecasting module 1013 cancompare time-synchronized commissioning data 813A, 813B, and 813Crelative to pass/fail criteria 514A for the aspect of the electricalsystem.

Similarly, forecasting module 513 can access pass/fail criteria 1014B.Pass/fail criteria 1014B can define appropriate operation of some otheraspect of electrical system 823. Forecasting module 513 can compare aplurality of other portions of time-synchronized commissioning data 313relative to pass/fail criteria 514B for the other aspect of theelectrical system.

Method 1100 includes forecasting the likelihood of the electrical systemoperating as intended in the production environment based on thecomparison (1103). For example, forecasting module 1013 can formulateforecasted operation 1016 based on comparisons of time-synchronizedcommissioning data 813A, 813B, and 813C relative to pass/fail criteria1014A. Forecasted operation 1016 can forecast the likelihood ofelectrical system 823 safely providing a stable power source for serversinstalled (e.g., in server racks) at data center 801 under a variety ofdifferent operating conditions.

Method 1100 includes generate a report indicative of the forecastedoperation of the electrical system within the production environment(1104). For example, forecasting module 1013 can generate report 1017including forecasted operation 1016.

Commissioning system 802 can output report 1017 through a (e.g.,graphical) user-interface. An operator of commissioning system 802(e.g., a commissioning agent) can view report 1017 at theuser-interface. In one aspect, report 1017 is provided in essentiallyreal-time. Based on report 1017, the operator can make additionaldecisions with respect to releasing electrical system 823 intoproduction. For example, the operator can initiate furthercommissioning, such as, if report 1017 indicates possible unsafe and/orunstable operation of electrical system 823 (or components thereof)under some set of operating conditions. Further commissioning caninclude collecting additional time-synchronized commissioning data,comparing time-synchronized commissioning data 813 to differentpass/fail criteria, generating additional reports, etc. Alternately, theoperator may be satisfied with the content of report 1017 and releaseelectrical system 823 into production.

The present described aspects may be implemented in other specific formswithout departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Thedescribed aspects are to be considered in all respects only asillustrative and not restrictive. The scope is, therefore, indicated bythe appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Allchanges which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of theclaims are to be embraced within their scope.

1. A system, the system comprising: one or more hardware processors;system memory coupled to the one or more hardware processors, the systemmemory storing instructions that are executable by the one or morehardware processors; a plurality of pieces of electrical systemequipment connected together to form an electrical system; a pluralityof monitoring devices, each monitoring device configured to collectcommissioning data, the commissioning data indicative of characteristicsassociated with operation of one or more of the plurality of pieces ofelectrical equipment; the one or more hardware processors executing theinstructions stored in the system memory to collect commissioning dataused to determine a likelihood of the electrical system operating asintended when released into production, including the following: accesscommissioning tests tailored for commissioning the electrical system forrelease into production; formulate commands for configuring theplurality of monitoring devices from the accessed commissioning tests,the commands for configuring the plurality of monitoring devices tomonitor characteristics associated with operation of one or more of theplurality of pieces of electrical equipment under one or more differenttest conditions; for each of one or more of the plurality of monitoringdevices: send a local timing signal to the monitoring device, the localtiming signal instructing the monitoring device to synchronize a clockto a specified time; send a command to the monitoring device instructingthe monitoring device to monitor one or more characteristics associatedwith operation of one or more of the plurality of pieces of electricalequipment under the one or more different test conditions; receivetime-synchronized commissioning data from the monitoring device, thetime-synchronized commissioning data indicating values monitored for theone or more characteristics at the one or more pieces of electricalequipment under one or more different test conditions, thetime-synchronized commissioning data synchronized in accordance with thelocal timing signal; and store the time-synchronized commissioning datain a database for subsequent analysis and reporting to determine thelikelihood of the electrical system operating as intended when releasedinto production.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality ofpieces of electrical system equipment include one or more of: atransformer, a generator, a switch, a relay, a circuit breaker, a busbar, a battery, an alternator, or an equipment rack.
 3. The system ofclaim 1, further comprising the one or more hardware processorsexecuting the instructions stored in the system memory to: receive aglobal time signal from a timing service; and formulate the local timingsignal from the global time signal.
 4. The system of claim 1, whereinthe one or more hardware processors executing the instructions stored inthe system memory to send a command to the monitoring device comprisesthe one or more hardware processors executing the instructions stored inthe system memory to send a command to the monitoring device instructingthe monitoring device to monitoring an environmental condition in anenvironment around a price of electrical equipment
 5. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the one or more hardware processors executing theinstructions stored in the system memory to send a command to themonitoring device comprises the one or more hardware processorsexecuting the instructions stored in the system memory to send a commandto the monitoring device instructing the monitoring device to monitor anelectrical characteristic of electricity on conducting wires inside apiece of electrical equipment.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the oneor more hardware processors executing the instructions stored in thesystem memory to receive time-synchronized commissioning data from themonitoring device comprises the one or more hardware processorsexecuting the instructions stored in the system memory to receivetime-synchronized commissioning data indicating sensed environmentvalues.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more hardwareprocessors executing the instructions stored in the system memory toreceive time-synchronized commissioning data from the monitoring devicecomprises the one or more hardware processors executing the instructionsstored in the system memory to receive time-synchronized commissioningdata indicating sensed electrical characteristic values.
 8. The systemof claim 1, wherein the one or more hardware processors executing theinstructions stored in the system memory to store the time-synchronizedcommissioning data in database for subsequent analysis and reportingcomprises the one or more hardware processors executing the instructionsstored in the system memory to store the time-synchronized commissioningdata for use in forecasting the likelihood of an electrical system in adata center operating as intended when released into production.
 9. Asystem, the system comprising: one or more hardware processors; systemmemory coupled to the one or more hardware processors, the system memorystoring instructions that are executable by the one or more hardwareprocessors; a plurality of monitoring devices, each monitoring deviceconfigured to collect commissioning data, the commissioning dataincluding characteristics associated with operation of one or more ofthe plurality of pieces of electrical equipment in an electrical system;the one or more hardware processors executing the instructions stored inthe system memory to determine a likelihood of the electrical systemoperating as intended when released into production, including thefollowing: access time-synchronized commissioning data from a storagedevice, the time-synchronized commissioning data received from each ofthe plurality of monitoring devices over a computer network, thetime-synchronized commissioning data synchronized between the pluralityof monitoring devices in accordance with a local timing signal; for atleast two pieces of electrical equipment from among the plurality ofpieces of electrical equipment under test: compare time-synchronizedcommissioning data for the at least two pieces of electrical equipmentrelative to defined pass/fail criteria for an aspect of the electricalsystem, the pass/fail criteria defining appropriate operation of theaspect of the electrical system within the production environment;forecast the likelihood of the electrical system operating as intendedin the production environment based on the comparison; and generate areport indicative of the forecasted operation of the electrical systemwithin the production environment.
 10. The system of claim 9, whereinthe one or more hardware processors executing the instructions stored inthe system memory to access time-synchronized commissioning data from astorage device comprises the one or more hardware processors executingthe instructions stored in the system memory to access time-synchronizedcommissioning data indicative of environmental condition values andelectrical characteristics values monitored at the at least two piecesof electrical equipment in the electrical system.
 11. The system ofclaim 9, wherein the one or more hardware processors executing theinstructions stored in the system memory to compare time-synchronizedcommissioning data for the at least two pieces of electrical equipmentrelative to defined pass/fail criteria comprises the one or morehardware processors executing the instructions stored in the systemmemory to compare time-synchronized commissioning data indicative of oneor more environmental condition values for each of the least two piecesof electrical equipment relative to pass/fail criteria.
 12. The systemof claim 9, wherein the one or more hardware processors executing theinstructions stored in the system memory to compare time-synchronizedcommissioning data for the at least two pieces of electrical equipmentrelative to defined pass/fail criteria comprises the one or morehardware processors executing the instructions stored in the systemmemory to compare time-synchronized commissioning data indicative of oneor more electrical characteristic values for each of the at least twopieces of electrical equipment relative to the pass/fail criteria. 13.The system of claim 9, further comprising the one or more hardwareprocessors executing the instructions stored in the system memory toreceive input indicating that further time-synchronized commissioningdata is to be collected based on the generated report.
 14. The system ofclaim 9, wherein the one or more hardware processors executing theinstructions stored in the system memory to forecast the likelihood ofthe electrical system operating as intended in the productionenvironment based on the comparison comprises the one or more hardwareprocessors executing the instructions stored in the system memory toforecast the likelihood of the electrical system providing a stablepower source for servers installed at a data center.
 15. A device formonitoring characteristics associated with a piece of electricalequipment in an electrical system, the device comprising: one or morehardware processors; system memory coupled to the one or more hardwareprocessors, the system memory storing instructions that are executableby the one or more hardware processors; network hardware fromcommunicating with a commissioning center computer system over acomputer network; one or more sensors for sensing characteristicsassociated with the piece of electrical equipment; a clock; and the oneor more hardware processors executing the instructions stored in thesystem memory to collect time-synchronized commissioning data for thepiece of electrical equipment, including the following: receive a localtiming signal from the commissioning center computer system over acomputer network, the local timing signal instructing the monitoringdevice to synchronize the clock to a specified time synchronize theclock with clocks at one or more other devices monitoring pieces of theelectrical equipment in the electrical system; synchronize the clock toa first specified time based on the local timing signal; receive acommand from the commissioning center computer system over the computernetwork, the command instructing the device to monitor one or morecharacteristics associated with operation of the piece of electricalequipment at a second specified time, the second specified time afterthe first specified time; monitor the piece of electrical equipment withthe sensors when the clock indicates the second specified time to sensevalues for each of the one or more characteristics associated withoperation of the piece of electrical equipment; transform the sensedvalues into time-synchronized commissioning data, the time-synchronizedcommissioning data indicative of the sensed values and that the secondvalues were sensed at the second specified time; send thetime-synchronized commissioning data to the commissioning centercomputer system for use in analysis and reporting to determine thelikelihood of the electrical system operating as intended when releasedinto production.
 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the one or morehardware processors executing the instructions stored in the systemmemory to monitor the piece of electrical equipment comprises the one ormore hardware processors executing the instructions stored in the systemmemory to sense values for an environmental characteristic associatedwith the piece of electrical equipment.
 17. The device of claim 15,wherein the one or more hardware processors executing the instructionsstored in the system memory to monitor the piece of electrical equipmentcomprises the one or more hardware processors executing the instructionsstored in the system memory to sensed values for an electricalcharacteristic associated with the piece of electrical equipment. 18.The device of claim 17, wherein the one or more hardware processorsexecuting the instructions stored in the system memory to transform thesensed values into time-synchronized commissioning data comprises theone or more hardware processors executing the instructions stored in thesystem memory to transform the sensed values for the electricalcharacteristic into time-synchronized commissioning data.
 19. The deviceof claim 18, wherein the one or more hardware processors executing theinstructions stored in the system memory to send the time-synchronizedcommissioning data to the commissioning center computer system comprisesthe one or more wherein the one or more hardware processors executingthe instructions stored in the system memory to send thetime-synchronized commissioning data to the commissioning centercomputer system to assist with identifying an electrical transientcondition in the electrical system.
 20. The device of claim 18, whereinthe one or more hardware processors executing the instructions stored inthe system memory to send the time-synchronized commissioning data tothe commissioning center computer system comprises the one or morewherein the one or more hardware processors executing the instructionsstored in the system memory to send the time-synchronized commissioningdata to the commissioning center computer system to assist withidentifying an electrical harmonic in the electrical system.